Longford ladies on course to qualify for knock-out stages

28.03.10 | Longford 1-11 Westmeath 0-7

Longford Ladies secured their third win in Division 3 of the National League on Sunday last when they travelled to Kinnegad to take on neighbouring rivals Westmeath. This was a real spirited performance by the Longford girls who are on course to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.

In the first half Longford had the advantage of playing with the wind but despite this they found themselves on numerous occasions with their backs to the wall. The Longford forwards were guilty of a lot of missed chances throughout the first half.

In spite of this they managed to go in at half-time leading 1-7 to 0-5 with the scores coming from Siobhan McGowan, Jacinta Brady, Denise Murtagh, Edel Quinn and Sharon Treacy.

Longford started the second half the same as they finished the first with a fine point from mid-fielder Jacinta Brady. Their defensive work was very impressive in the second half with Yvonne Barden, Michelle Ross, Mairead Moore and Sinead Farrell withstanding everything the Westmeath side threw at them.

It has to be said that it was this excellent defensive work that paved the way for the victory over Westmeath who were restricted to a mere two points when playing with the wind in the second half.

The introduction of Mary Kiernan, Una Flynn and Anna McDonnell brought fresh legs to the attack and created problems for the Westmeath defence.

On the day, Longford were best served by Sinead Farrell (who covered a lot of ground), Yvonne Barden and Michelle Ross who played vital roles in the defence while Siobhan McGowan worked well for Longford in creating scores. The Brady sisters at midfield supplied and fielded great ball right throughout the game.

Longford now approach their final round game in two weeks time when they will travel to take on Wicklow. A victory here will clinch a league semi-final showdown against the table toppers Cavan.